65 M Aquarius   /   KETCH

The joint team of Dykstra Naval Architects, Royal Huisman and Mark Whiteley Design is delighted to announce the new build agreement for an exciting 65 m / 212ft performance ketch rigged sailing yacht. One of the main areas of focus for this ketch rigged sailing yacht is the performance optimization, to get her all geared up for the super yacht regatta circuit.

CEO Thys Nikkels: "A great team to be working with on this exciting project, we sure can't wait to see her racing The St Barths Bucket!"

It is a great compliment when owners value the experience of their yacht so highly that the only material change they want is to build a larger version, with exactly the same team. Yet that is the story behind the decision of the experienced husband and wife owners of the 56-meter world cruising ketch AQUARIUS (now named Apsara) to create a stunning new 65m / 212ft 'big sister', AQUARIUS. The team comprises owners' project manager Godfrey Cray, Dykstra Naval Architects, interior designer Mark Whiteley and superyacht builder Royal Huisman.

The owners' brief retains a strong emphasis on performance. AQUARIUS will feature a state-of-the-art carbon rig and integrated sail handling from Rondal, structured luff sails, and a retractable keel for optimal stability under racing conditions. 56m Ketch AQUARIUS was first in class at her St. Barths Regatta debut in 2019. Hence the comment "After all, I want to keep winning Bucket races!" from her owner.